Luton marks Islamophobia Awareness Month

The month aims to raise awareness of the impact of anti-Muslim hatred and how we can all work together to prevent and defeat it, while recognising and celebrating the valuable contributions of Muslim communities. It also provides an opportunity to share lived experiences, promote mutual understanding and foster stronger relationships between individuals and communities of different faiths and backgrounds.

This year’s theme, ‘Don’t Let It Slide’, calls on everyone to recognise and address Islamophobia whenever it occurs. It emphasises the importance of taking action in everyday situations, whether by challenging harmful stereotypes, speaking out or offering support to those who experience discrimination.

As part of Islamophobia Awareness Month, the council – in partnership with the Luton Council of Mosques, University of Bedfordshire and the Police and Crime Commissioner – is organising an event at the University of Bedfordshire. Taking place on 20 November, it will bring together speakers from a wide range of backgrounds to share professional insights, lived experiences and personal reflections. 

The event will include discussions exploring the findings of the ‘Everybody Knows: Islamophobia, Safety and Belonging in Our Town’ report, produced by FACES Luton, The Raise Up Foundation and The Courtney Foundation, alongside open and honest workshops focused on how communities, individuals and organisations can work together to challenge Islamophobia. To attend the event, please book your free place via Eventbrite.

Councillor Rumi Chowdhury, Portfolio Holder for Women, Equalities and Community Safety, said, “Everyone in Luton should feel valued, accepted and able to participate fully in community life. Islamophobia has no place in our town, and no one should face hatred or discrimination because of their faith. Islamophobia Awareness Month gives us an opportunity to reflect on the way we treat others and consider how we can help create a society where everyone feels welcome.

“This year’s theme, ‘Don’t Let It Slide’, highlights the importance of speaking up when we see prejudice or discrimination, rather than allowing it to go unchallenged. We all have a responsibility to look out for one another and help make a difference.

“Last month’s No Place For Hate event showed the powerful and impactful work taking place to tackle issues in our communities and we really hope people can join us on 20 November. It will be an opportunity for residents from all backgrounds and faiths to come together, share experiences, celebrate our diversity and strengthen understanding across our communities.”

Bedfordshire Police and Crime Commissioner John Tizard said, “I welcome the report ‘Everybody Knows: Islamophobia, safety and belonging in our town’ from FACES Luton, The Raise Up Foundation and The Courtney Foundation. A big thank you to them for producing it. 

The report sadly shows that Islamophobia is a scourge across Luton and the wider county. It is one of the most prevalent forms of racism and faith-based hate. It is repugnant and must be eradicated. 

No one should have to experience Islamophobia. We must all pledge to stand up, call out, and challenge Islamophobia and those who practice and promote it be they individuals or institutions. 

The ‘Don’t Let It Slide’ event is a great opportunity for us to recommit, to making Luton a cohesive town and “no place for hate” through practical action and not just words.”

Find out more about this year’s Islamophobia Awareness Month theme, ‘Don’t Let It Slide’, and how you can get involved. 

If you witness or experience Islamophobia or any kind of hatred – whether it’s online or in person, verbal or physical – we encourage you to report it. Every report matters and helps keep our community safe, welcoming and inclusive for everyone. 

You can also report hate incidents and access confidential support through Stop Hate UK, Bedfordshire’s third-party hate crime reporting service.